Why Earn a Precision Machining Degree at NCC?
Earning a Precision Machining degree at Northampton Community College (NCC) provides students with hands-on training and real-world skills needed for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing. Students learn to operate manual and CNC machines, use industry-standard CAD/CAM software, and produce precision components used in industries such as aerospace, medical, and automotive manufacturing.
NCC’s Precision Machining program emphasizes practical lab experience, modern equipment, and instruction from industry professionals, preparing graduates to enter the workforce with the technical knowledge and problem-solving skills employers are looking for. With strong regional industry demand and clear career pathways, students can transition quickly from the classroom to rewarding careers in precision machining.
What You’ll Learn in our Precision Machining Programs
In our Precision Machining programs students develop the technical skills needed to design, manufacture, and inspect precision components used in modern industry. Training begins with fundamental machining practices and progresses into advanced manufacturing technologies.
Students gain hands-on experience with:
- manual mills and lathes
- CNC programming and operation
- blueprint reading
- precision measurement
- CAD/CAM software
Program Details
Semesters: 4
Credits: 64
College Catalog: View Curriculum
Program Map: Download PDF
Locations: BethlehemProgram Overview:
The Precision Machining and Tool Design program prepares students for skilled careers in manufacturing, toolmaking, and precision engineering. This program combines manual machining, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operations, and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) technologies to develop the ability to design, manufacture, and inspect precision components for industries such as aerospace, medical, and automotive.
Students gain hands-on experience in machining, measurement, and process planning while advancing to complex multi-axis CNC programming and tool design. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, efficiency, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) application, and quality assurance aligned with industry standards.
Graduates will be prepared for employment as CNC machinists, tool and die makers, manufacturing technicians, or CAD/CAM programmers, or to continue studies in advanced manufacturing or engineering technology.
Semesters: 3
Credits: 48
College Catalog: View Curriculum
Program Map: Download PDF
Locations: BethlehemProgram Overview:
The Precision Machining and CNC Basics program provides a solid foundation in manual machining with an introduction to computer numerical control (CNC) technology. Students learn to safely set up and operate lathes, mills, grinders, and drill presses, interpret blueprints, and measure to precise tolerances. The program emphasizes hands-on skill development, precision, and problem-solving while connecting traditional machining techniques with modern CNC processes. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in machining and manufacturing or to continue advanced study in CNC and automated production.
Semesters: 2
Credits: 29
College Catalog: View Curriculum
Program Map: Download PDF
Locations: BethlehemProgram Overview:
This program introduces students to the principles and practices of precision machining using manual machine tools. Emphasis is placed on shop safety, blueprint reading, measurement, layout, and hands-on experience with lathes, milling machines, grinders, and drill presses. Students develop the skills to produce precision components, interpret technical drawings, and apply quality control methods used in modern manufacturing environments
Semesters: 1
Credits: Not-Applicable
College Catalog: View Curriculum
Program Map: Download PDF
Locations: FowlerProgram Overview:
Fundamentals of Precision Machining is a 10 week (265 hours) hands-on program that provides students with the skills needed to fill high-demand machining positions for Lehigh Valley and Pocono businesses. Participants will gain foundational skills in manufacturing including safety; reading blue prints; shop math; measurement and the use of calipers and Vernier scales; and operating drills, lathes and milling machines.
